England stars Danni Wyatt and Sophie Ecclestone likely to be top draws for Women's IPL

After many delays and uncertainty, the much-awaited IPL 2020 was finally rolled out by the BCCI on 19th September. After being postponed twice, there were many questions over the feasibility of the league, especially when coronavirus cases in India are at a high. However, the BCCI identified the UAE as a viable option to stage the T20 extravaganza.

The IPL 2020 has already rolled out 13 matches for fans and has garnered record-breaking viewership. After successfully flagging off the men’s IPL, the BCCI is also set to host a “mini-IPL” from November 4 to 9.

Even though the BCCI is yet to come out with an official confirmation on the dates of the three-team tournament, the players are expected to depart for the UAE by the second week of October. Upon their arrival, they’ll also go a mandatory six-day quarantine. The report also stated that the players will be tested on day one, three, and five after their arrival at the team hotels. Players will be allowed to start training only when they clear all the tests.

ECB willing to issue NOCs

Two top women cricketers from England, Sophie Ecclestone and Danni Wyatt are also expected to ply their trade in the much-awaited Women’s Challengers Series. The ECB has also expressed its willingness to issue No Objection Certificates (NOC), provided it is satisfied with the COVID-19 protocols.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has no problem in allowing their players to participate in the T20 extravaganza in the UAE, reported ESPNCricinfo. Amongst the English players, World No.1 T20 bowler Ecclestone and star batswoman Wyatt are likely to be top draws. Other England women players likely to feature in the tournament are– Fran Wilson, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sophia Dunkley, Anya Shrubsole and Kate Cross.

Even when the cricket scenario in the country was at a halt due to Covid-19 pandemic, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had assured that the three-team tournament will certainly take place. Three sides– Trailblazers, Velocity and Supernovas will fight for the ultimate prize. The four matches of the event are likely to be held in Sharjah or Dubai as Abu Dhabi has separate quarantine rules.